Overview
First aid competency is a core professional standard for every BMABA-registered instructor. As a membership body committed to safeguarding and professional standards, we require all active instructors to hold an appropriate first aid qualification and provide a dedicated hub within MyBMABA to help members meet, maintain, and demonstrate that standard.
Our Position on First Aid
BMABA does not prescribe a single mandatory qualification, but all registered instructors are required to hold a current, valid first aid certificate appropriate to their teaching context.
At minimum this means:
A recognised Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate, or equivalent, for instructors teaching adults only
A Paediatric First Aid (PFA) certificate, or equivalent, for any instructor working with under-18s
Certificates must be in date (most qualifications are valid for three years) and issued by a recognised provider.
First aid qualification status is recorded within a member's profile and is visible within MyBMABA. Where a qualification is expired or absent, this will be reflected in the member's compliance status and may affect their suitability rating.
For a full breakdown of accepted qualifications and our requirements, see: First Aid Qualifications
The First Aid Hub
The First Aid Hub is an interactive resource centre built into MyBMABA, available to all logged-in members. It is a practical readiness and knowledge support tool designed to complement a member's formal qualification, not replace it.
The Hub contains a number of interactive tools and resources covering session preparation, equipment checks, emergency protocols, and scenario-based training. Full access is available to members through their MyBMABA dashboard.
A summary of what members can expect to find:
Session preparation tools help instructors confirm their venue, equipment, and student records are in order before a class begins.
Kit guidance covers the minimum required items for a compliant first aid kit, with practical guidance on maintaining and replenishing equipment.
Emergency reference material provides concise, accessible guidance on the most common dojo emergencies, written for use under pressure.
Scenario-based training allows members to test and refresh their knowledge through realistic situations drawn from a martial arts teaching environment.
A personal readiness dashboard draws from the member's profile to show their first aid qualification status, expiry date, and overall compliance position.
Accessing The Hub
All registered members can freely access the hub here;
Qualifications and Compliance
The First Aid Hub is a support tool. Compliance with BMABA's first aid requirements is met through holding a valid certificate from a recognised provider, not through use of the Hub alone. Members working toward Club Colours or Regulation Ready status should ensure their qualification is current and on record before assessment.